A Word to the Friends of Bro. and Sr. White.
By Editor
In view of the increasing demands upon the time and strength of Bro. and sister White, we deem it duty to say a word in their behalf in this public manner. It would be gratifying to them to render all the attention to their friends, either in the line of correspondence or entertainment at their home, that they might desire; but circumstances render it impossible for them so to do. These circumstances should be taken into consideration, and in view of them Bro. and sister W. should be, as we trust they will be, cheerfully excused. For instance, many are writing letters to sister W., wishing a reply by mail. If they do not receive it, they perhaps think it strange, and consider themselves neglected. Such should consider that while they have written and are expecting a reply, scores of others have done the same from all parts of the country; and though it might not take her a great while to answer any one of these letters singly, to answer them all, would occupy all her time, and take her attention completely from other and more important duties. They should consider also, the vast amount of labor that devolves upon her in consequence of the position she is called to occupy in the church. They would be surprised at the amount of writing she is obliged to perform in personal communications to individuals, besides the general matter which she prepares for the press. When she is at home, all her time, except a very small proportion, is spent at the Office in attending to these duties. Sister W. is, and ever will be, glad to hear from any of her friends, and will answer when in her power to do so; but if all do not receive answers to their letters, they must not consider themselves neglected, but understand that it is owing to some of the circumstances we have here mentioned. Another point: Brethren visiting Battle Creek, are accustomed, as is perhaps natural, to make it their stopping-place at Bro. White's. This being the general rule, it brings too great a demand, considering his situation, upon his time and attention. Help of a suitable kind to take charge of their family, under these circumstances, is difficult to be obtained. Sister White's time and attention is occupied as we have already set forth, while Bro. White's head and hands are full of the cares and duties pertaining to the Office of publication, and the general interests of the cause. Again: Bro. and sister White are so much of the time away from their family, in the wide field, laboring hard, and seeing, and forming acquaintances with,78so many brethren and sisters, that when they reach home it is a privilege to them to be retired. We know it is natural for those whose hospitality they share abroad, to immediately go to their house on visiting Battle Creek. Bro. White appreciates the kindness he has received at their hands, and enjoys their society; but it should be borne in mind, that for the many to entertain one, is a very different thing from the one entertaining the many. Bro. White has deprived himself of many privileges by doing more than his proportion in this respect in times past; even taking upon himself in the early stage of the cause, nearly the entire burden and entertainment of whole conferences. Besides, all the time that they can get from their necessary duties, while in Battle Creek, they owe to their children and family who are for so much of the time deprived of their instruction and attention; and of this instruction and attention they should not be robbed by company, while Bro. and sister White are at home. Brethren, therefore, should not calculate while coming to Battle Creek, to make it their home at Bro. White's; and this remark will apply especially to the valids, and all persons of feeble health, who may come expecting to receive, if not a regular course of treatment, at least special attention. Their own health, and that of their family, is all that they should have the care of in this direction. Those going there should be such as can render, rather than those who need assistance. Persons who reach Battle Creek in the night will find hotels near the depot where they can find lodging till morning for a mere trifle. Especially persons arriving in the night should not go to Bro. White's. They should not be broken of their rest. Their worn bodily strength demands all the rest that their exhausting labors will permit them to enjoy. We have thus said a few words in behalf of these faithful and toil-worn servants of the cause. Their friends will understand, appreciate, and acquiesce in the suggestions we make. Brethren will understand that we are glad to have them visit Battle Creek. We are happy to see them; and there are plenty of places where they will find a cordial entertainment. Brethren, others, as well as Bro. White, beg a portion of your company when in Battle Creek. Inquire for U. Smith or G. W. Amadon, who will entertain you, or direct you where you may be entertained.